Tire Rubber Industry

Asbestos in Tire and Rubber Manufacturing

The tire rubber industry uses asbestos in its production of medical gloves, tires, insulation, and gasket materials due to its durability and heat resistance. Unfortunately, handling asbestos-reinforced rubber products exposed workers to dangerous airborne fibers. These microscopic fibers were often inhaled unknowingly or settled on the skin and clothing, leading to long-term health risks. Those who worked in the tire rubber industry, mixing, molding, or cutting rubber products, were at the highest risk of inhaling asbestos dust. Prolonged exposure can cause serious illness, including mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis. If you or a loved one worked in the tire rubber industry and has since developed symptoms of mesothelioma, you may be eligible for compensation to cover medical bills and lost wages.

How Asbestos Exposure Happened in Tire Plants

Inhaling toxins is a widely recognized risk factor for occupational diseases in the tire rubber industry. Inhalation exposes the body to toxic chemicals and asbestos dust through the respiratory system, primarily through the lungs. In addition to the risk of inhalation, long-term skin contact can result in dangerous cancer-causing agents entering and building up in the body. In fact, some rubber factories have reported soluble dermal exposure levels that are ten times higher than inhalation exposure levels. Over time, combined exposure can increase the risk of skin cancers, respiratory diseases, and conditions linked to chemical absorption. 

Occupations and Exposure Risks in Tire Plants

Workers in the tire rubber industry faced exposure to many hazardous substances, but asbestos was among the most dangerous. Manufacturers commonly used asbestos in insulation, gaskets, and brake components because of its heat resistance. When these materials were cut, molded, or handled, microscopic asbestos fibers became airborne, posing a health risk. The occupations with the highest risk of asbestos exposure include:

• Maintenance workers
• Machinsts
• Mixing operators
• Boiler operators
• Pipefitters
• Curing press operators
• Mold cleaners
• Tire builders
• Production line operators and supervisors
• Retread tire technicians
• Tire cord production machine operators
• Warehouse workers
• Wheel and tire assembly workers

Exposure levels vary by job, but those involved in curing and processing operations had a higher risk of experiencing future respiratory issues and chronic pulmonary disease. Machine operators, maintenance workers, and boiler technicians also encountered asbestos during daily tasks while working around asbestos-insulated equipment, repairing machinery lined with asbestos, and mixing materials containing asbestos. If you worked in the tire rubber industry and regularly handled hot rubber products, lubricating oils, or asbestos-containing materials, it’s important to undergo screening for asbestos-related conditions like mesothelioma and lung cancer.

Secondary Exposure Risks from Asbestos Rubber

At times, workers in the tire rubber industry unknowingly expose family members through secondary exposure. Microscopic asbestos fibers clung to their clothing, tools, and hair after long shifts in the manufacturing plants. They then carried asbestos dust with them into their home, where it settled on furniture, floors, and in laundry piles. Family members inhaled asbestos while washing contaminated work clothes and hugging workers after shifts. Over time, these small but repeated exposures led to serious illnesses such as mesothelioma and lung cancer. 

How to File a Claim If You Worked in Tire Rubber Manufacturing

If you or a loved one developed mesothelioma, lung cancer, or asbestosis after working in the tire rubber industry, you may be eligible for compensation. Former workers and their families may be eligible to file a claim against the companies responsible for their exposure to asbestos. An experienced asbestos attorney can help you gather key documents to support your claim, such as work history documentation, medical records, and proof of diagnosis. Our patient advocates can help you find the right lawyer who can guide you through the process, protect your rights, and assist you in recovering the compensation your family needs for medical care and lost income. 

Legal Help for Tire Rubber Workers

We understand how devastating an asbestos-related diagnosis like mesothelioma or asbestosis can be. Our patient advocates are here to listen to your story, answer your questions, and connect you with experienced asbestos attorneys who can help you build a strong case against those responsible. We offer free consultations, no upfront fees, and access to attorneys with experience handling asbestos-related cases. Don’t hesitate to reach out today, as we are here to guide you through every step of your diagnosis.